How can I reduce multitasking during my child’s learning time? 

Parenting Perspective 

Creating a Calm and Focused Environment 

Helping your child stay focused during study begins with creating a calm and uncluttered environment. Children are naturally drawn to stimulation, so extra toys, noisy siblings, or nearby screens can quickly divide their attention. Keep the learning area simple. Use a tidy desk, minimal decorations, and just the materials needed for that session. Say, ‘Let us give this one task our full attention,’ and model the same focus by turning off your phone or sitting quietly with your own reading or writing. 

Using Visuals, Praise, and Breaks 

Use a short checklist or a visual schedule to track their progress. For younger children, turning over flashcards or placing stickers after each step builds a sense of accomplishment and progress. Praise their focus with words like, ‘You stayed with this even when it was tricky’ or ‘I saw how hard you worked on that part.’ Positive reinforcement trains the brain to associate single tasking with success and joy. Also, allow short movement or snack breaks between subjects. This rhythm teaches them that focus is not a race but a healthy, sustainable practice that leads to deeper learning. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzaab (33), Verse 35: 

“…And the men who remember Allah (Almighty) excessively and women who also remember (Allah Almighty excessively)… “

The verse highlights the power of consistent, intentional remembrance, which itself requires focus. In Islam, doing something with sincerity, presence, and excellence is not only a virtue but an act of worship.¹ Attention and care are part of Ihsan, doing things in the best possible way. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2137, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

“Allah loves that when a person does something, he does it with excellence. “

This Hadith teaches that quality is more valued than rushing or doing many things at once. Teaching a child to stay with one task at a time is a form of spiritual discipline. It mirrors the way we are asked to be fully present in Salah, in Dua, and even in our dealings with others. 

Reducing multitasking helps your child absorb, reflect, and build meaningful habits. It aligns with the Islamic value of being mindful and sincere in all actions. By shaping their focus now, you are also nurturing their ability to be present with Allah Almighty, with themselves, and with others. In this way, every study session becomes not just an academic task, but a training ground for spiritual excellence.